UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program 2027 – Postgraduate

The UCT Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program supports postgraduate students from Africa who face significant financial barriers to study at the University of Cape Town.

What it offers

• A scholarship that covers study at UCT for eligible postgraduate programmes
• Comprehensive support including leadership development, mentorship, career development and community engagement

Who can apply

• Applicants must be citizens of an African country, including South Africa
• Must be applying for an eligible taught postgraduate programme at UCT:
  • postgraduate diploma offered by the Faculty of Health Sciences
  • honours degree offered by any of UCT’s six faculties
  • coursework master’s programme offered by any of UCT’s six faculties
• Must demonstrate academic talent, commitment to excellence, significant social and economic barriers to higher education, potential for ethical leadership, and commitment to community service

What you'll do

• Pursue a world-class education at UCT
• Develop leadership potential and build skills for the world of work
• Contribute to positive change in your community and society

How to apply

• Step 1: Review UCT’s website for information about study options: https://uct.ac.za/applicants-and-students
• Step 2: Submit your application to the University of Cape Town at: applyonline.uct.ac.za
• Step 3: Submit your Mastercard Foundation Scholars Program application at: www.uct.ac.za/mastercardfdn
• Postgraduate application deadline: 31 October 2026